Chapter 13 Wrap Party, Is it a Promise?
At 6 PM, at Ma Dashuai Restaurant, which was owned by the nephew of Ben Shan’s close friend, the wrap party for the Journey of the Lost film crew was held. The entire bill was covered by Ben Shan. Six tables were set up, and besides the film crew, some of the company’s artists came to join the fun. As more people arrived, two more tables were added, turning the event into a company team-building event.
Qu Yiming sat with Ben Shan in the private room, alongside the company’s top management. The atmosphere was a bit chilly due to the conflict that had occurred two weeks ago.
“I’d like to say a few words…” Ben Shan spoke up. “You guys don’t get along with each other, and I gave you all a chance to settle things. But whether you win or lose, Yiming is still my apprentice, and the company needs all of you to work together. You’re all big players, so be more broad-minded.”
Qu Yiming stood up, raised his glass of wine, and said, “I’ll drink first. The rest of you, feel free.”
Ben Shan looked at the others, who picked up their glasses and began pouring wine. Liu Shuangping, the leader of the company’s conservative faction, raised his glass.
“Then I’ll toast to Yiming’s movie being a huge success.”
“Thank you, Liu,” Qu Yiming replied indifferently. He then looked at Ben Shan and said, “Master, I’ll go greet the crew. You all continue your conversation.”
“Okay,” Ben Shan nodded.
Qu Yiming left the private room and went out to the hall, where he greeted the entire film crew. Afterward, he sat down next to Xiao Shen Yang, who had just arrived.
“When did you get back? Why didn’t you say anything beforehand?” Qu Yiming asked.
“I just came from the airport, barely twenty minutes ago,” Xiao Shen Yang replied.
“Rushed? Did the Master ask you to come back?”
“Yes,” Xiao Shen Yang said with a frown. “He wants me to lead the team for that comedy competition you’re organizing.”
Now that Xiao Shen Yang was famous, he had no lack of gigs and performances. He wasn’t really interested in participating in variety shows; he preferred to make money by performing at commercial events.
“This show will be good for you,” Qu Yiming said quietly. “If you win, you might even be on the Spring Festival Gala this year.”
“Is that for real?” Xiao Shen Yang asked, his interest piqued. “I’ve seen you become a sensation, I’m not going to lie, I’m a bit envious.”
“Then why else would the Master call you back?”
“Can you help me write a few skits?”
Qu Yiming shook his head.
“I can’t. You know I signed a bet contract; I’m focused on the movie now.”
“Fifty million, huh? Good luck, junior!”
Xiao Shen Yang clapped him on the back.
After having a few drinks and chatting for a while, Qu Yiming wandered over to Zhang Tian Ai.
“Where’s your mom?” He asked.
After Zhang Tian Ai returned to Shen City to film, her mom came from Harbin to watch her act, though what exactly she thought, Zhang Tian Ai wasn’t sure.
“Ah, finally willing to come find me?” Qu Yiming asked, teasing.
Zhang Tian Ai gave him a sidelong glance.
“She went to the restroom.”
“Oh, when you head back to the hotel, don’t forget to pick up your wrap gift from the front desk.”
“What gift?” Zhang Tian Ai asked curiously.
“You’ll know when you get back and see it,” Qu Yiming replied with a smile.
“Okay,” Zhang Tian Ai said. “By the way, I’m going to Beijing Film Academy tomorrow to report for the spring term.”
She had passed the exam for the spring intake of the advanced class.
“Then go ahead and study performance well,” Qu Yiming said.
“I will, but I have a question…” Zhang Tian Ai’s eyes brightened. “Will you come find me?”
Qu Yiming thought for a moment.
“Of course, I’ll call you for the premiere.”
“That’s not what I mean. Will you come find me personally?” Zhang Tian Ai asked, her eyes filled with expectation.
Not yet, huh… Qu Yiming thought to himself. “Don’t worry, I’ll definitely come.”
“Okay. By the way, thanks for giving me the chance to act in your movie.”
“Mm, I believe in you. Go and study at the Beijing Film Academy.”
Zhang Tian Ai nodded vigorously.
“I’ll be waiting for you at the Beijing Film Academy!”